Norwegian funding for UNDP renewed

Norway has this week renewed its funding for UNDP’s work in the areas of democratic governance, crisis prevention and early recovery, and environment and energy. Altogether, Norway is providing NOK 250 million in funding.
 
"UNDP plays a crucial role in many countries. That is why we are supporting its work to advance democratic governance and combat corruption.  These efforts help to safeguard the rights of individuals, and help to ensure that politicians and authorities are held accountable to the people,” commented Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim. He also emphasised the role played by UNDP in promoting sustainable development. “We would like to see positive, long-term development in the world’s poorest countries. This will only be possible if these countries are enabled to address crises in such a way that human suffering and material damage are minimised. UNDP plays an important role in this area, for instance by helping countries to develop their own emergency preparedness plans for dealing with floods and other natural disasters,” Mr Solheim said.

“UNDP has a key role in the reconstruction of societies in the wake of humanitarian crises. The organisation’s considerable expertise and extensive experience of capacity development of governance structures are vital for strengthening vulnerable states in post-conflict situations. We will continue to support the leading role played by UNDP in this area. This is an important and demanding area, which Norway wishes to give high priority to,” commented Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Key facts:

• In 2009, Norway was the biggest donor of core funds to UNDP. Norway provided a total of NOK 770 million. When earmarked funds are included, Norway is the fifth largest contributor to UNDP.
• UNDP is on the ground in 166 countries, and is the cornerstone of the UN’s development efforts.
• UNDP plays a key role in coordination and UN reform, for instance by being responsible for the UN’s resident representatives in each country.